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Jiyugakuen Myonichikan - Table of Contents
EXTERIOR -
Jiyugakuen Myonichikan School
Tokyo, Japan
Official Jiyu Gakuen Girls' School Website
| Built: |
1921 |
| Architect: |
Frank
Lloyd Wright and Arata Endo. Wright and Arata collaborated so closely
on the design for the "School of the Free Spirit" that the final plans
were signed by both of them - the first time Wright had ever shared
credit. |
| Style: | Prairie |
2013 photos  Note owl sculpture at right ... Widely overhanging eaves   Note unusual geometric design - one example of the geometric motif found throughout the school.  Built of economical 2 x 4 wood and plaster, Jiyu Gakuen featured a central section with double-height volume and soaring windows facing south onto an open courtyard, with symmetrical wings on the east and west.  East wing  West wing   Kawara ceramic fired roof tiles  Instead of putting costly stained glass in the windows, Wright arranged wooden window frames and crosspieces in a geometric way. Not only was this economic, but was it successful in creating a unique atmosphere.   Geometric motif extended to ceiling  Myonichikan is also given a Japanese touch by Wright's extensive use of gray-green oya stone for pavements, columns and the lanterns standing in the corridors.   Myonichikan is also given a Japanese touch by Wright's extensive use of gray-green Oya stone (from Tochigi Prefecture) for pavements, columns and the lanterns standing in the corridors. |
